Community Update from Ward 1 Councillor Matt Garwood, Township of Springwater
Hello Springwater residents. I’m pleased to share updates on recent decisions and developments that are shaping our community. My goal with these columns is to inform, not to offer opinions, so you can stay connected with what’s happening in Springwater.
LifeLabs Expands Hours in Elmvale:
LifeLabs Elmvale has expanded its hours to Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the Springwater Health Services Centre. This partnership with the Township improves local access to essential lab services and supports residents’ health and wellbeing.
Presentation to the Elmvale Harvesters:
Council welcomed the Elmvale Harvesters and congratulated them on their inaugural Ontario Elite Hockey League season. In their first year, the team built strong community pride with packed stands and widespread support. Their efforts brought Springwater together and set the stage for continued success.
Award of Elmvale Arena Dehumidification System for Phase 2:
The contract to improve dehumidification and atmospheric control at the Elmvale Arena has been awarded at $273,612.30, including non-recoverable HST.
Rural Intersection Illumination:
Council directed staff to consult with the County of Simcoe and the Ministry of Transportation on adding lighting at rural intersections. Under County policy, lighting is only installed and maintained if an intersection meets specific criteria. If not, the Township may proceed but would cover all installation and ongoing maintenance costs.
Examples of intersections under review include:
- CR19 (South Orr Lake Rd) and Baseline Rd
- CR29 (Crossland Rd) and Flos Road 5 West
- Flos Rd 10 East and Hwy 93
Award of Minesing Community Hall Basement Foundation Remediation:
The Township has awarded the contract for basement foundation remediation at the Minesing Community Hall at $450,661.46, including non-recoverable HST. This investment supports the upkeep of important community spaces that bring residents together.
Proposal for a Springwater Endowment Fund:
Council directed staff to invest $22.8 million from the Barrie Restructuring Compensation Agreement into an endowment fund over the next five years. A final policy will be presented at the May 6, 2026 meeting.
Award of Tender for Road Rehabilitation Program – 2026 Various Roads:
A contract has been awarded to Georgian Paving (a division of Miller Paving Ltd.) for road rehabilitation on multiple roads and one municipal parking lot. Valued at $1,678,997.20 (excluding HST), the work includes the supply and placement of hot mix asphalt and supports ongoing investment in local infrastructure.
The Elmvale Farmers’ Market Returns for 2026:
The Elmvale BIA is excited to announce the return of the Elmvale Farmers’ Market for the 2026 season, a celebration of local food, creativity, and community spirit that continues to grow each year. The Market will run on Thursday evenings from 3:00pm to 7:00pm, June 11 to August 27.
2026 Elmvale Maple Syrup Festival:
Discover the joy of the Elmvale Maple Syrup Festival, a beloved Ontario tradition featuring pancake breakfasts, artisan vendors, and immersive sugarbush tours. Mark your calendar for Saturday, April 25, 2026, and join the sweet celebration in Elmvale!
Springwater Council Addresses Infrastructure, Growth, and Long-Term Financial Planning
SPRINGWATER – A wide-ranging agenda at the April 15, 2026 meeting of Springwater Township Council highlighted major investments in infrastructure, long-term financial planning, and continued growth across the municipality.
Council recognized community achievements early in the meeting, with a presentation honouring the Elmvale Harvesters, led by Councillor Matt Garwood. In addition, representatives from the North Simcoe Business Centre introduced the “Springwater Expansion Project,” aimed at supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses. Council received the presentation, signalling interest in fostering local economic development.
Asset Management Plan and Proposed Levy
A key item on the agenda was the Township’s 2025 Asset Management Plan and Strategic Asset Management Policy. The plan outlines how Springwater will maintain and invest in critical infrastructure over the coming years.
As part of the discussion, Council will consider introducing a dedicated 2.6 per cent annual asset management levy beginning in 2027. The proposal has been referred to future budget deliberations, underscoring the Township’s focus on long-term sustainability.
Major Infrastructure Investments
Council reviewed and approved several significant infrastructure projects, including:
- Minesing Community Hall repairs, with a contract awarded for basement and foundation remediation at a total project cost of approximately $495,700.
- Purchase of new tandem and single axle snowplows, together exceeding $850,000, to support winter road maintenance.
- A bridge replacement and culvert rehabilitation project valued at over $1.2 million.
- The 2026 Road Rehabilitation Program, awarding nearly $1.7 million for resurfacing roads and improving municipal infrastructure.
Upgrades are also planned for municipal facilities, including:
- A $268,000 dehumidification system upgrade at the Elmvale Arena.
- An $82,000 roof repair program for the municipal administration building, with a full replacement forecasted within the next eight years.
Long-Term Financial Strategy: Endowment Fund Proposal
One of the most notable items was a proposal to establish a Springwater Endowment Fund, using $22.08 million from the Barrie Restructuring Compensation Agreement.
If approved, the fund would:
- Protect the principal investment permanently
- Reinvest a portion of annual returns
- Help stabilize property taxes following boundary adjustments
- Offset future debt for capital projects
Staff have been directed to return with a finalized policy in May.
Development and Planning Matters
Council also addressed several development-related items, including:
- Progress on the Carson (Thompson Lands) subdivision in Midhurst, including a reduction in securities tied to completed earthworks
- Approval steps for subdivision agreements and zoning amendments
- A Community Improvement Plan grant supporting Chelsea Chocolates with signage improvements
Emergency Services and Facilities
An additional $31,000 was requested and recommended for upgrades to Fire Station 5, including renovations and improvements to firefighter facilities.
Looking Ahead
Council will also consider a motion regarding rural intersection illumination, exploring costs and feasibility for improved lighting at select County road intersections in partnership with the County of Simcoe.
The meeting is scheduled to adjourn with the next regular Council session set for May 6, 2026.